REGION:
INDIAN OCEAN
12 HRS+ FROM THE UK,
21 HRS+ FROM THE US,
25 HRS+ FROM CANADA,
18 HRS+ FROM AUSTRALIA
MAIN SEASON IS MARCH TO OCTOBER, WITH BIGGEST SWELLS JULY TO SEPTEMBER
GOOD INTERMEDIATE AND ADVANCED SURFERS ONLY
REGION:
INDIAN OCEAN
12 HRS+ FROM THE UK, 21 HRS+ FROM THE US, 25 HRS+ FROM CANADA, 18 HRS+ FROM AUSTRALIA
MAIN SEASON IS MARCH TO OCTOBER, WITH BIGGEST SWELLS JULY TO SEPTEMBER
GOOD INTERMEDIATE AND ADVANCED SURFERS ONLY
Maldives Family Surf Travel Guide
Sun-kissed Sands, Turquoise Waters and World-Class Waves
The Maldives is a dream destination for families seeking an unforgettable surfing adventure. While known for its luxurious resorts and romantic getaways, this tropical paradise also boasts incredible surf, particularly suited to intermediate and experienced surfers. Imagine your family carving up perfect waves against a backdrop of breathtaking beauty. From resort breaks to thrilling boat charters exploring remote atolls, the Maldives offers a unique surfing experience for families with older kids and teens ready to take on some serious swells.
The Maldives Surf Holiday Highlights
- A mix of world-class reef breaks, offering challenging waves for experienced surfers.
- Luxury resorts with convenient access to prime surf spots.
- Surf boat charters for adventurous families wanting to explore outer reefs and remote atolls.
- Stunning natural beauty, from pristine beaches to vibrant coral reefs.
- Year-round warm water and tropical climate.
- Family-friendly resorts with activities for all ages, including non-surfers.
The Maldives Overview
The Maldives, an archipelago of over 1,000 coral islands in the Indian Ocean, is a surfer’s paradise. With consistent swells and warm waters, it attracts surfers from around the globe. While beginners can find gentle waves at some resorts, the Maldives truly shines for intermediate and advanced surfers. Families with experience will find plenty of opportunities to test their skills on the world-renowned reef breaks.
For the ultimate adventure, consider a surf charter, allowing your family to access secluded spots and experience the magic of surfing in this tropical haven. Even families with non-surfing members will find plenty to enjoy, with luxurious resorts offering a range of activities and amenities. Did you know one of the islands is nicknamed “Family Island?” It’s a great choice for families with non-surfing children or partners, offering plenty of activities and space to relax while the surfers in the family get their wave fix.
The Maldives Surf Trips
Our Maldives surf guide outlines where to surf, when to go, and what to do while visiting this exciting surfing destination with your family. We already have one surf camp listed on our site and we’re busy researching other family surf resorts and hotels in The Maldives, and will add more accommodation options shortly. Please check back soon.
Quick Facts About The Maldives as a Family Surf Destination
Getting there: It’s a 10-14 hour flight from the UK to Malé. From the US, it’s 21 hours or more. International flights arrive at Velana International Airport (MLE) on the island of Hulhulé, next to the capital island Malé. From there, you’ll transfer to your resort by speedboat or seaplane.
Getting around: Resorts are typically located on their own islands, so transfers are arranged through them. For exploring other islands or surf spots, you can use local ferries, speedboats, or domestic flights. Surf charters are the best way to access the more remote breaks.
Surf season: The Maldives offers year-round surf, but the best time depends on which atoll you’re visiting.
- Male Atolls: The prime surf season here is from March to October, with consistent swells and offshore winds.
- Central Atolls: These atolls experience their best waves from April to October.
- Southern Atolls: The surf season here runs from February to November, with the largest swells typically hitting between March and May.
Surfing level: While some resorts offer beginner waves, the Maldives is best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Climate: The Maldives enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round.
Wetsuit: Boardshorts and bikinis. A rash vest and leggings are also recommended, especially for fair-skinned surfers, as the sun is severe.
Time zone: MVT (UTC+5)
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but US dollars are widely accepted.
Family Surf Co says:
Elliot Walker
“The Maldives is a dream surf destination with clean, peeling waves, warm water and a laid-back culture. It’s pricey but the rewards are worth it. The kids love simming in the sea, which is teeming with fish and marine life.
“While most of the surf breaks are off limits to novices, intermerdiate and more advanced surfers will experience waves of a lifetime. This destination is definitely one for the bucket list.”
Read on to discover the best locations to surf, play, eat and stay on your family surfing holiday in The Maldives.
SURF: WHERE TO GO FOR YOUR FAMILY SURF HOLIDAY IN THE MALDIVES
The Maldives is divided into three main surfing regions: Male Atolls, Central Atolls, and Southern Atolls. Each offers a unique surfing experience.
Male Atolls: This region is home to some of the most famous and accessible breaks in the Maldives.
- Cokes (Colas): A powerful right-hand reef break, known for its long, hollow barrels. Best for experienced surfers.
- Chickens: A left-hand reef break, offering a more mellow ride than Cokes. Suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers.
- Sultans: Another right-hand reef break, offering a variety of waves for different skill levels.
Central Atolls: These atolls are a bit more remote, offering a more secluded and less crowded surfing experience. Waves here are known for their consistency and quality.
Southern Atolls: The most remote of the three regions, the Southern Atolls offer some of the biggest and most challenging waves in the Maldives. This area is best suited for very experienced surfers looking for adventure.
Featured Maldives Surf Trips (more coming soon)
PLAY: THINGS TO DO ON A FAMILY SURFING HOLIDAY IN THE MALDIVES
Beyond surfing, the Maldives offers a range of activities for families.
- Underwater Adventures: Explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life through snorkelling or scuba diving. Many resorts offer guided tours and lessons for all levels.
- Island Hopping: Take a boat trip to explore local islands, experience Maldivian culture, and discover hidden beaches.
- Fishing Excursions: Try your hand at traditional Maldivian fishing techniques, whether handline fishing or big game fishing.
- Relaxation and Rejuvenation: Indulge in luxurious spa treatments at your resort, enjoy yoga classes, or simply relax on the pristine beaches.
- Sunset Cruises and Dolphin Watching: Embark on a sunset cruise to witness breathtaking views and encounter playful dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Water Sports: Many resorts offer a variety of water sports, including paddleboarding, kayaking, windsurfing, and jet skiing.
EAT: FOOD & DRINK FOR ALL THE FAMILY IN THE MALDIVES
Maldivian cuisine is a delicious blend of flavours, with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and aromatic spices.
- Fresh Seafood: Being an island nation, seafood is a staple of Maldivian cuisine. Enjoy grilled fish, tuna curries, and other seafood delicacies.
- Coconut-based Dishes: Coconut is used extensively in Maldivian cooking, adding a rich flavour to curries, rice dishes, and desserts.
- Tropical Fruits: Savor the sweetness of locally grown tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and pineapples.
- “Hedhikaa”: These are traditional Maldivian snacks, often savoury pastries filled with fish, vegetables, or eggs.
- Drinks: Try “Raa,” a local coconut water, or enjoy fresh fruit juices and mocktails.
STAY: FAMILY-FRIENDLY SURF HOTELS AND ACCOMMODATION IN THE MALDIVES
The Maldives offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious overwater bungalows to family-friendly resorts. Many resorts cater specifically to surfers, offering convenient access to surf breaks and surf-related amenities.
If your family are experienced surfers, the other option is joining a multi-day surf boat charter to explore some of the more remote surf breaks. These boats are often luxurious, with everything you could need for an awesome surf voyage.
THE WRAP: ESCAPE FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE FAMILY SURF TRIP IN THE MALDIVES
The Maldives offers a truly unforgettable family surf adventure. With world-class waves, stunning scenery, and a range of activities for all ages, it’s the perfect destination for families seeking an exotic and thrilling getaway. Now you just need to book your surf accommodation and get packing!
To get a better idea of what to expect, watch this video on one surf family’s trip to The Maldives.
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